Taiwan’s pet products market, including food and accessories, reached approximately US$19.3 billion in 2024, according to data from the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research referred to in a U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service report. That pet food is feeding Taiwan's growing pet population, which increased to 1.48 million dogs and 1.31 million cats in 2023, increasing over 2021 numbers.
Imports accounted for a significant portion of the Taiwanese pet food market in 2024. Statistics from Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture show that approximately 70% of the nation’s pet food comes from abroad. The county’s pet food imports reached a record high US$276 million in 2024.
Top exporters into Taiwan pet food market
Thailand leads pet food imports into Taiwan with a 37.2% market share in 2024, valued at US$100 million.
“Thai pet food products are renowned for their diverse range and competitive pricing, which have contributed to their dominance in the Taiwanese market,” Cleo Fu, USDA FAS agricultural marketing specialist wrote in the report. “Thailand's geographic proximity to Taiwan facilitates efficient logistics and supply chain management, further enhancing its market position.”
The United States was the second-largest supplier overall driven by stringent U.S. pet food safety standards and the use of premium ingredients. Also, USDA Market Access Program support has enabled U.S. brands to build loyalty among health-conscious Taiwanese consumers. However, supply chain frictions, such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) concerns and delays in APHIS facility approvals, have constrained further market expansion. Since 2018, U.S. pet food facilities can gain export approval through APHIS inspections without direct oversight from Taiwan authorities. However, adherence to Taiwan’s detailed safety, nutrition, and labeling regulations remains essential.
Online platforms dominated pet product sales in 2022, accounting for over 41% of spending, followed by pet specialty retailers and supermarkets. E-commerce's rise is supported by free delivery incentives and bulk purchasing options.
